June Jones went 1-11 in his first year at SMU but rebounded nicely last year by going 8-5 and leading SMU to a bowl victory over Nevada. SMU loses just 13 lettermen this year so they look to be in a good position to equal or succeed their 2009 finish.To find out more about SMU we talked with Ponyfans.com, the #1 SMU fansite.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

STRENGTHS
1. Coaching: June Jones has had something of a Midas touch wherever he has been. He lifted a long-dormant Hawaii program to new heights during his tenure on the islands, and in just his second year in Dallas, he led the Mustangs to their first bowl game in 25 years. Jones is renowned as an offensive genius, and rightly so, but his most important gift might be that of master psychologist. He and his staff have changed the culture around a program that had had just one winning season in the previous two decades. Jones believes in positive reinforcement and has instilled a new level of accountability in his team, from freshmen to fifth-year seniors.

2. Quarterback Kyle Padron: With exactly six starts on his college résumé, Padron already is one of the clear-cut leaders on the team. He has a 5-1 record as a starter and set an SMU single-game record with 460 passing yards in the Hawaii Bowl ... and was named the game's Most Valuable Player. His passer rating of 159.9 was the fifth-highest mark in the nation.

3. Defensive ends: Starters Taylor Thompson and Marquis Frazier completely changed the effectiveness of the defense last year, playing solidly against the run and the pass. Coupled with backup Margus Hunt — who, in his first year of playing football came within one of the all-time NCAA record for blocked kicks in a single season — the Mustangs have the best trio of defensive ends in more than 20 years.

4. Offensive tackles Kelvin Beachum, Jr. and J.T. Brooks: the bookends of the Mustangs' offensive line are big, athletic and technically solid. Beachum earns more accolades, but by the end of the 2009 season, Brooks was the offensive line's best player. These two were key reasons why Padron barely got any pressure at all in the Hawaii Bowl.

WEAKNESSES
1. Depth: Since Jones' arrival, the Ponies have collected some quality starters, but are dangerously thin at many positions.

2. Uncertainty in the running game: transfer Shawnbrey McNeal was a pleasant surprise last year, running for more yards than any back June Jones has ever coached in college, but he is in San Diego now, trying to make the Chargers as a free agent. Chris Butler, Zach Line, Bryce Lunday and Ryan Moczygemba return, but many expect a pair of true freshmen, Kevin Pope and Darryl Fields, to compete for significant playing time — if not a starting role — right away.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?

Texas Tech — the easy answer is because it's the next (and first) game on the schedule. The Red Raiders are facing a philosophical change as the players Mike Leach recruited try to master the system new coach Tommy Tuberville teaches, so the Ponies are catching them at the right time — first game out of the chute. But while SMU is closing the gap on the talent difference, Tech still has more size, speed and depth. An upset isn't out of the question, but an SMU victory would still be just that: an upset.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

One trademark of a June Jones-coached team seems to be an absolute absence of fear. SMU lost a lot of talent from last year's team, but the players and coaches seem positive their system will work better and better as the talent and depth improve and the players get more and more familiar with the intricacies and nuances of the offensive and defensive systems. If a team has to be picked, TCU is the easy answer after its run into the top 10 last year, but many of the Mustangs came out of that game feeling encouraged by the fact that SMU hung tough with the Frogs for more than half the game in a torrential downpour, and openly speculated about what might have happened had an interception that would have led to a sure touchdown not been dropped (with SMU already ahead, 7-0). Whether the Mustangs could have beaten TCU last year if they had gone up 14-0 never will be known, but the general feeling is that the difference in talent is far smaller than it was in years past.

Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?

Wide receiver Cole Beasley was largely overshadowed last year behind receiving leader Emmanuel Sanders, who was drafted in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Aldrick Robinson, the Ponies' top returning target who finished second on the team last year with 47 receptions and whose elite speed helped him lead the team with an average of 17.0 yards per reception. But Beasley quietly finished fourth on the team with 40 receptions for 493 yards and reached the end zone three times. He is an exceptional athlete with deceptive speed who has improved his strength considerably with increased effort in the weight room over the offseason.

Who is the best offensive player on the team?

It's hard to name someone with just under seven career games, but when an injury forced Padron into the starting lineup last year, the SMU offense changed. The true freshman played with the poise of a veteran, moved the offense efficiently, protected the ball and made plays with both his arm and his feet.

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

Cornerback Sterling Moore is another who spent last season overshadowed by teammates, but he is the most physical corner on the team, and maybe in Conference USA. He's not a pure sprinter, but is very strong pressing at the line of scrimmage, has exceptional technique and can go up and fight much bigger receivers for high passes.

What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach its full capability?

A running back — any running back. Whether it's one of the veterans or one of the incoming freshmen, someone has to provide balance in the offense. The Run-and-Shoot is known as a passing offense, but Jones said repeatedly last year that it was McNeal's presence as a viable running threat that allowed the passing game to thrive. When he ran effectively, the defense had to play the run honestly, thereby creating more room downfield for the passing game.

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

Kevin Pope and Darryl Fields — running back is a position at which a newcomer can make an early impact because of sheer athletic ability, and both will be given an opportunity to compete early. If they can handle the protection assignments that are required in Jones's offense, either could get a chance to play.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

JUCO cornerback Richard Crawford is fast and athletic, and comes from a pass-happy league in California. Longtime SMU starter Bryan McCann is in camp with the Dallas Cowboys, and two of the youngsters expected to compete for McCann's spot aren't back this year. The team needs Crawford to come in ready to play right away.

Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

6-6 — the Mustangs lost a small senior class, but that class included a lot of key performers, including WR Sanders, SS Rock Dennis, CB McCann and C Mitch Enright. Jones and his staff are building the program the right way, stockpiling young talent, but while that talent base grows, the Mustangs will call on a lot of young players to fill key roles.

Southern Miss started out strong last year by winning their first 3 games including victories over UCF and Virginia. All of those were at home and when Southern Miss went on the road they dropped their next 3 games. It was an up and down season that culminated in a bowl loss to Middle Tennessee. The Golden Eagles ended up 6-0 at home and 1-5 on the road in the regular season. We caught up with Drew from the Scout.com site Golden Eagle Pride to learn more about the 2010 Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

Injured quarterback Austin Davis returns after missing a majority of the season last year due to a broken foot. His presence, along with 9 of 11 returning starters on defense means a lot of experience will be coming back. The defensive front seven all return, with sophomore Jamie Collins moving to linebacker. The linebackers are strong, fast, and will be a strength of the defense.

The biggest concern comes along the offensive line. There is talent from several strong recruiting classes, but they must replace 4 of the 5 along the front. The only returning starter is senior center Cameron Zipp. There are questions as to how the offensive line will be able to jel.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?

Southern Miss opens the college football season on a Thursday night game against the Gamecocks of South Carolina. The third game of the year will see Big 12 opponent Kansas making a trip to Hattiesburg. We'll know a lot about this Eagle team before conference play begins.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

Southern Miss has adapted an attitude of "anyone, anywhere, anytime." They have always been a school that is known for going to play the best college football has to offer. Saying that, Houston's offensive power gave USM fits last season. Without defensive adjustments, the Cougars will be a tough match-up again. Central Florida is also a difficult place to play and could decide Conference USA East this season.

Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?

Senior starting running back V.J. Floyd has been behind all time leading USM rusher Damion Fletcher and Tory Harrison for three years. He knows the system, has paid his dues, and is ready for a big season offensively. Not flashy, he is steady, solid, reliable, and provides good leadership for this offense.

Who is the best offensive player on the team?

WR Deandre Brown may not only be the best on the team, but could emerge as the best Wide receiver in college football. That is quite a bold claim, but the 6'6 wide receiver has fully recovered from a gruesome leg injury that slowed him last season. That, and having his quarterback returning, could make for a record breaking tandem. Brown has been a model player in spring and summer work outs, has improved his speed and strength, and is ready to show the nation why he should be considered among the nation's best.

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

MLB Korey Williams embodies some of the great USM linebackers of the past. Strong, fast, and tenacious, Williams led the team in tackles last season, and was clearly the leader of this defense. He can stuff the run, get to the quarterback, or pass cover. Also watch for defensive lineman Anthony Gray who regularly gets double teamed, and outside linebacker Jamie Collins. Collins saw significant time as a freshman at safety, and possesses freakish size and speed.

What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach it's full capability?

QB Austin Davis had a break-out freshman year. He must return to his old form. A number two wide receiver must emerge to take some of the pressure and regular double teams DeAndre Brown will face, and could come in Jondrick Morris or Quintin Pierce. The secondary, a glaring weakness of the team last season, must step up. Safeties Justin Wilson and Kendrick Pressley must prove they can defend the pass in a wide open Conference USA.

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

It sounds silly to say, but kicker Corey Acosta out of Memphis may have the biggest impact this season. USM made even extra points an adventure, and ended the season with the lowest extra point percentage in college football. Acosta brings a strong, accurate leg that will be a major upgrade in the field goal unit. True freshman O.C. Brown, offensive lineman out of Memphis, will compete for playing time right away, and JUCO transfer Kelvin Bolden will be one to watch as a wide receiver.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

Redshirt freshman Octavious Thomas was a sleeper in the recruiting class from two years ago. A speed defensive end, Thomas could provide someone to take some pressure off Gray in the middle. Also, newly added Marquese Wheaton from Phoenix, AZ as a JUCO transfer could fill in one of the holes at cornerback.

Who is your pick to take C-USA this year (other than Southern Miss)?

Central Florida looks to have built a solid defense, and they have some skill position players back that make them and USM the teams to beat in the East. Houston will have another stellar offense, and also watch for emerging SMU to make a run in the West with June Jones turning that program around.

Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

Nothing short of a conference championship will be successful this season. Southern Miss once dominated Conference USA, and has been on the outside looking in the past couple of seasons. They need to win the east and get back to Memphis to play for the liberty bowl for this season to be a success. With a revamped offensive line, 8-4 is likely the result of this season.

Make sure to visit Scout.com's Southern Miss website Golden Eagle Pride for all of your Southern Miss football and recruiting needs.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Rob Harley knew that he wanted to play football for the Ohio State University since he was three years old. He grew up hearing stories about his great-great uncle Chic Harley, who was the first three-time All-American at Ohio State. Rob lived out his dream by walking on and playing football for the Buckeyes. Rob also became a part of college football history during his tenure at Ohio State as he was a part of a team that won the National Championship in 2002. Rob graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and is currently working as a College Football Analyst for ABC WSYX in Columbus, Ohio. We had a chance to do a Q&A with a guy who not only works as an analyst for college football but also played the game for one of the most stories programs. Here is what Rob shared with us...

You started your career at Ohio State as a walk-on and were awarded a scholarship for your final season. How did it feel to receive that honor?

Receiving a scholarship was a great honor, but in all honesty it was the “icing” on the cake. I wanted to go to Ohio State since I was 3 years old with one idea in mind, to PLAY for the Buckeyes. The real honor came two years before the scholarship when I played enough in games to earn 2 varsity letters. Going to Ohio State was never about a scholarship, it was always about actually playing/contributing in front of 100,000 fans every Saturday. When it was all said and done I was a 3-time letter winner and that’s probably the thing that makes me the most proud.

You were a part of the 2002 Ohio State National Championship team. In order to win a National Championship the ball has to bounce your way at times. Ohio State played a lot of close games in the regular season in 2002 (beat Cincinnati 23-19, beat Northwestern 27-16, beat Wisconsin 19-14, beat Penn State 13-7, beat Purdue 10-6, beat Illinois 23-16 in OT, and beat Michigan 14-9). Was there a moment or a game that made you think that this might be a "team of destiny"?

That 2002 team was one of the most resilient teams I’ve ever seen. There was a genuine calmness about everyone on the field and the sidelines, that when things got tough we were going to find a way to pull through. I think that was personified in the win over Purdue with the play that Buckeye fans know as “Holy Buckeye.” The stars just seemed to align that day in West Lafayette, and you couldn’t help but get the feeling that the National Championship was our destiny.

Looking back at the 2002 roster there are a lot of guys that have made it in the league (Michael Jenkins, Ben Hartsock, Will Allen, Chris Gamble, A.J. Hawk, Bobby Carpenter, Mike Doss, Will Smith, Santonio Holmes, Troy Smith, etc) that were on that team . Who were the unsung heroes on the team?

There were a lot of great players on that 2002 National Championship team, and a lot of guys who got a ton of recognition. Like most teams there are always those “hard hat” or “lunch pail” guys that just come to work every day to play their hearts out because they don’t know any different. Defensive tackle Tim Anderson was one of those guys, taking on double teams in the trenches so they linebackers could roam free. Wide receiver Chris Vance, affectionately known as Spiderman, had some great 3rd down, possession receptions throughout the season. A lot of people forget about punter Andy Groom who had an All-American caliber season, and was worth weight in gold in the field position battle. I think you also have to put defensive end Darrion Scott in there too, he was a force coming off the edge and really made opposing lineman work on every down. The 2002 Silver Bullet defense was a special group that made offenses earn everything they got, it was an awesome unit to watch.

Ohio State is in a lot of pre-season Top 5's this year. Who are the players to watch on this years team?

All eyes will be under center on QB Terrelle Pryor. Can Terrelle ride the momentum of an impressive Rose Bowl game and become a quarterback? In my mind the definition of a quarterback is “game manager.” The Buckeyes have a bevy of talent around Pryor; WR Sanzenbacher, WR Posey, RB Herron, and RB Saine. With that being said it’s Pryor’s job to distribute the ball and make the key decision when it’ll be his time to shine. On defense DE Cameron Heyward will be a monster, he’s gifted with size, speed, and the nasty attitude it takes to play up front in the Big Ten. I think you circle LB Brian Rolle this season, he’s an instinctive player that can run sideline to sideline. Then you have to give love to the big uglies in the trenches so put a spotlight on the 4 returning O-lineman. This 2010 Buckeye squad will rise and fall with the play of the big boys up front.

What is your take on Big Ten expansion? Are you for it or against it? And if the Big Ten does expand further who would you like to see as a part of the Conference?

As a fan of college football I love the idea of Big Ten expansion. Depending on the teams that join the Big Ten it has the potential to give us some unbelievable match-ups every year. Now with the addition of Nebraska we’ll get to see Huskers-Buckeyes, Huskers-Hawkeyes, Huskers-Badgers, or Huskers-Nittany Lions every season. What an incredible addition to the conference, a storied program that will only make Big Ten tradition even deeper. In my mind I’d love to see Notre Dame join the Big Ten, another program with tons of tradition that would create some great games as well. I think I’d throw Pittsburgh in there too, as a program that would be a solid middle tier addition. The only question I have about expansion is, what happens to college football as a whole? The power conferences get stronger, but where are the little guys in all of this? As a supporter of college football it worries me that expansion may make certain teams/conferences irrelevant. The pursuit of money has blinded a lot of people to the real reason college football is great…the actual football. It’s an amazing sight to see college athletes give from every team, division, conference, etc. give it up for every Saturday. I’d hate to see expansion throw a mask over the greatest game on the planet.

Ohio State, Iowa and Wisconsin seem to be the popular picks to finish in the Top 3 in the Big Ten this year. Outside of those teams who do you see as a sleeper team in the Big Ten that can step up and contend for a title?

I firmly believe that the Big Ten is on the up-swing and you definitely saw it during the 2009 bowl season. The Buckeyes, Hawkeyes, and Badgers are without a doubt the favorites, but I’ve got a feeling Michigan State and Northwestern will be in the conversation at some point. The Spartans have talent at key positions, but it’s really about playing consistent for them. If the Michigan State defense can minimize big plays and win a few ball games, Sparty might just have a chance. Pat Fitzgerald has Northwestern playing good football in Evanston. Biggest question mark will be under center, can junior Dan Persa replace the 2009 Big Ten leading passer Mike Kafka? Persa is a capable player, but expect the offense to try to be a little more balanced as he cuts his teeth. You’ve got to like Northwestern’s chances to compete if you look at their defense. Yes, they lose DE Corey Wooten, but they may just have one of the best linebacking corps in the conference. If the Cats can establish a running game (last year’s leading RB had 302yds), they might be in the discussion in November.

Who do you feel are some of the under the radar players in the Big Ten that deserve more hype and publicity?

Wisconsin TE Lance Kendricks will be a headache for a lot of defenses, at 6’4” 240lbs he’s a guy that can get vertical in the seam quickly to stretch a defense. Michigan State QB/WR Keith Nichol, he’s got some wheels and may give the Spartans the option to run the Wildcat. Iowa OT Riley Reiff has become the new BMOC in Iowa City, a guy that the Hawkeyes believe could be the best in the last 10 years. Ohio State LB Brian Rolle will be a force to be reckoned with, he has a great nose for the football and has the ability to make people pay.

What games are you most looking forward to watching this year?

LSU vs. UNC - should be a great match-up, that impressive Tar Heel defense will have a chance to measure itself early.

Boise State vs. Va Tech – the Broncos with yet another chance to prove they belong with the big boys, if BSU can go on the road in Landover, MD and get the win…I’ll be a believer.

Miami vs. Ohio State – this is a mirror image game with two similar athletes under center that are looking to produce consistently and become quarterbacks.

Penn State vs. Alabama – this one should be interesting with the Lions headed down South with a new QB, we’ll get a chance to see what PSU is made of quickly.

Nebraska vs. Washington – I’ll be interested to see QB Jake Locker become “the guy” this season, he has all the talent in the World and it’ll be tested by a stingy Husker defense.

As a former defensive back, who are some of the guys currently playing in college that you feel best epitomize that position and that you enjoy watching play the game?

The Big Ten always has solid safeties and this year is no exception. Iowa’s Tyler Sash is the embodiment of a safety. He has the knack for making game changing plays when the Hawkeyes need it the most. Plays the ball well in the air (6 INTs), and can stick his nose in the box to support the run with 85 tackles in 2009. Also check out Clemson’s DeAndre McDaniel. He’s a ball hawk over the middle with 8 INTs last season, and at 6’1” 210lbs a force to be reckoned with after having 102 tackles.

On the flipside of that questions, who are some of the Wide Receivers or Tight Ends currently in college that you are glad you don't have to suit up and try and stop?

There’s always those players that make you nervous and make you think twice about going one on one as a defender. Cincinnati WR Armon Binns is one of those players, at 6’4” he can challenge anyone vertically and he’s a touchdown machine with 11 TDs in 2009. Another beast in the Big East is Pitt’s Jonathan Baldwin. There’s no defender that wouldn’t look at 6’5” 225lbs as a problem. Baldwin isn’t just imposing physically, the kid can flat out play averaging 19.5 yards per catch last season. Virginia Tech WR Jarrett Boykin is another guy who makes it a tough task to go one on one as he average almost 21 yards per catch in 2009. Although he may be a system player Houston WR James Cleveland still produced. He had over 1,200 yards receiving and found the endzone 14 times as a Sophomore.

Not including Ohio State, who is your "way too early" pick to take the National Championship this year? Any teams flying under the radar that you think could make a run for it like you guys did in 2002 after going 7-5 the previous year?

It’s awfully early to be picking National Champions when the ball hasn’t even kicked off yet, but I’ve got my eye on a couple of teams. In my mind Texas has a great shot since they broke in their new QB on the biggest stage in last season’s National Championship game. The biggest question mark is the Longhorn run game. Without a solid effort on the ground this season, young Garrett Gilbert will have a rough time putting the entire team on his shoulders. It may be a cliché, but it’s true…defense wins championships. With that mind set North Carolina (8-5 last season) might have an outside chance of sneaking into the National title game with a defense loaded with NFL talent. The Heels also return their top four producers on offense, if they can find an answer under center it should get real interesting in Chapel Hill.

Ohio State is in everybody's top 5 this year. The Buckeyes return 9 starters on offense and some very good players return from one of the top defenses in the nation last year. Can they win their 6th straight Big Ten title? HD Handshoe of BlockONation answers our questions as we try to figure out just how good Ohio State can be this year.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

The defense should once again be one of the best in the nation, but the offense could also be one of the best if Terrelle Pryor and company play as they did down the stretch in 2009, culminating with their huge Rose Bowl win over # 7 Oregon. The only real potential weakness I can see is on special teams, specifically the punting and kicking game.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?

Without a doubt, the week two game vs. the Miami Hurricanes will be a true test of how good this Buckeye team is. "The U" has a solid QB in Jacory Harris and coach Randy Shannon has them heading in the right direction. Miami should be even better than they were in 2009, and they were a really good team so the Buckeyes must be ready and better be focused if they expect to win.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

I'd probably call it a tie between Iowa and Wisconsin. Both are good teams and although I believe the Buckeyes are better than both, going on the road to Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City and Camp Randall Stadium in Madison and coming away from both games with wins will be extremely difficult to say the least so those two games could be what prevents the Buckeyes from playing for a BCS title in 2010.

Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?

This is kind of a tough question to pick just one guy. On offense, I would probably say WR Dane Sanzenbacher. DeVier Posey has emerged as the # 1 guy, but Sanzenbacher reminds me a lot of former Buckeye Anthony Gonzalez. He is a clutch possession receiver but he is also capable of making the big play down field. On defense, Nathan Williams was a spot player last season but I believe you will hear his name a ton this season as a starter on the defensive line.

Who is the best offensive player on the team?

Hands down, it has to be QB Terrelle Pryor. He's fast, he can run, believe it or not he can also throw and he has a mean stiffarm when he takes off. He can hurt you in multiple ways.

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

DE Cameron Heyward, son of the late Craig "Ironhead" Heyward is a great player and will command double teams all season long so he gets my vote.

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

WR Chris Fields may end up as the # 3 WR if Duron Carter doesn't get his head on straight, and I've heard nothing but good things about him. Also, if RB Jamaal Berry can stay healthy and find his way into the backfield, he could be great if he lives up to the hype he received as the top recruit in the OSU class of 2009.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

He's actually a RS senior but my eyes are on Tyler Moeller, who missed the entire 2009 season after being sucker-punched while on vacation in Florida last summer. If he can make it back to 100% and get on the field, I believe he could make a huge impact. Jermale Hines is also a player to watch as he will likely replace Kurt Coleman and see full-time action in the defensive backfield.

Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

I am somewhat of a homer and I admit that but in my most objective opinion I can muster for you, I will be very surprised if Ohio State doesn't win at least 11, if not all 12 regular season games in 2010. Miami, Iowa and Wisconsin are the only three teams that they could potentially lose to in my opinion if they play below their true capabilities.

Make sure you visit Block-O-Nation during the football season and follow them on twitter @BlockONation.

There is really no way to sugar coat it, Illinois simply wasn't very good last year. They only won 3 games and one of those was against Illinois State. At first look I would think they catch a break in not having to play Iowa or Wisconsin (two of the best 4 teams in the conference) but they didn't play either of those 2 teams last year either. Ron Zook has made changes in both coordinator positions for this season. He recognizes that his job is on the line and that he needs to get this team to win ball games. Illinois is not that far off from a talent perspective. We turned to Paul M. Banks of TheSportsBank.net to answer our questions about Illinois football.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

The running game- that's about the only aspect of the team I'm optimistic about. Especially since 3/5 OL starters are back and RB Mikel LeShoure is the real deal. Jason Ford is a serviceable backup, sometimes. The front seven returns four starters, so there's some hope there. The secondary will be anybody's guess. It's a crap shoot. The passing game could be a mess, it was an absolute train wreck last year, and that was with an experienced QB and WRs. And with everyone EXTREMELY HIGH on the receiving corps entering the season. Maybe it's good we're starting over here, especially with a new off coordinator.

I'm very high on Petrino, maybe he'll improve the passing game from '09.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test?

Mizzou right off the bat in St. Louis, they've owned us lately and have a 16-7 edge in the all time series.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

My first three years on campus we went 5-28, so I've been conditioned to fear everyone. The Ron Zook era has done little to nothing to alleviate that fear.

Leading rusher LeShoure- he averaged close to seven yards a carry on the season, and finally seized the starting tailback position all to himself when it was previously a wide open derby, exactly like Rashard Mendenhall did in 07

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

D lineman Clay Nurse who was all conference honorable mention last year. He should find the opponent's backfield early and often this fall.

What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach it's full capability?

That's 100% MLB Martez Wilson. Last summer, we were all talking about how he was moving over to the middle, and how the two guys that preceded him, Brit Miller, and J Leman led the conference in tackles. And it was his turn to finally live up to the huge billing that surrounded him as a recruit. He was right up there with Arrelious Benn and Vontae Davis. A fluke injury cut his 09 short, but now he has another year to step up

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

QB Nathan Scheelhaase. Has to be. Like Al Pacino said in "Any Given Sunday" "it's the top spot kid, you're the guy that has to lead, and take the fall." Here's why I think naming him the starter early is the way to go.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

This answer will change numerous times between now and Camp Rantoul, and change many times again between Camp Rantoul and our inevitable 25+ pt loss on Sept 4th to Missouri.

The popular off-season topic is conference re-alignment and the Big Ten is at the forefront of the discussion. Who would you like to see added to the Big Ten (CFBZ note: This question was prior to Nebraska joining the Big Ten)?

Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Maryland, Syracuse, Cincinnati and UConn. You may be asking why all these teams? Well, I want every conference to do this. Because then and only then will we get closer to that long overdue playoff system. Here's my theory of how that can happen.

Ron Zook has one of the hottest seats right now in college football. What does he need to do to get this team to the next level and keep his job?

Not be college football's answer to Vinny Del Negro. The Zooker has an alphabet that lacks Xs and Os. As bad a coach as he has been, (and nothing short of 8-4 or better this fall will change that perception) his job is somewhat secure because the state is utterly broke and has no money to buy out his contract. As if the Zook contract extension decision wasn't bad enough, the University compounded their mistake by adding another year to his deal. Unless the boosters can somehow legally get a lot of money together, he's here till 2014. Despite the fact that the case for dismissing him is very strong right now.

Vic Koenning was brought in to improve a defense that was last in the Big Ten in points allowed and yards allowed. What is the buzz about him, do the fans think he will be able to get the job done?

In his four at years Clemson, the defense finished in the NCAA Top 25 in scoring, total, and pass efficiency defense each season. He also helped lead Troy’s defense to a No. 1 national ranking in interceptions (25), tied for second in turnovers forced (32), was ninth in fewest yards allowed per play, and finished 16th in total defense (311.0). So there's hope especially since he has 7/11 returning starters on his side of the ball. But then again this is Illinois, so the last thing you ever want to do is have high expectations.

Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

A bowl berth/bowl win would be nice, as I'm really expecting some 3-9, maybe 4-8 to show up this fall. But 7-5 or better doesn't matter unless you can sustain it. My alma mater hasn't had back to back winning seasons since 91-92. Ron Turner had two fluke years. Zook has had one. This program can't excite anyone until they get 3 or more consecutive postseasons, like they had in the 80s.

It is not a good mix when you are last in your conference in points scored and you also give up the most points. That's the boat that New Mexico was in last year, but shockingly despite finishing 1-11 on the year they did not come in last place in Mountain West. When we needed answers about UNLV we turned to Jacob from the SB Nation blog Mountain West Connection. For this preview we head back to Mountain West Connection and spoke with Jeremy about the New Mexico Lobos.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

The running game appears to be a strength with that position going four deep, and the defensive line could be one of the best in the Mountain West. Well, the defensive line could be good as the Lobos are pinning their hopes on two transfers from Illinois --Reggie Ellis and Ugo Uzodinma -- who are now eligible and four star defensive tackle recruit Calvin Smith from Florida. The team has no go to wide receiver and their quarterback is green and only played sparingly because he got mono last year and was out a month. There really is not too much hope in New Mexico expect for the slogan should be "It can't be any worse then 2009." The team by default should be better wit a year in the Mike Locksley system. The back seven of the defense will be in trouble again with the exception of LB Carmen Messina who lead the nation in tackles last year.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?

Right out of the gate the Lobos travel to Autzen stadium where they stand little to no chance, and then it does not get any easier as they play Texas Tech and Utah at home. Their first test against a reasonable opponent comes in week four when they play at UNLV who is breaking in a new head coach. The UNLV game -- and possibly the Tech game -- will where we will know if the Lobos are going to be any better then last year. The Rebels will be transitioning to a more pro style offense and move away from the spread attack they ran under Mike Sanford, so the learning curve will be there for the Rebels which could give the Lobos chance to get their first win.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

TCU, because it is the last game of the season and if New Mexico is not in contention for a bowl game, and if TCU is going for a BCS bid then things could get ugly. TCU may need to put on some style points to prove they are really that good and will need the win to stay ahead of other teams vying for that BCS bid.

Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?

Linebacker Carmen Messina because he played on a defense that was one of the worst in the country, but he was able to lead the nation in tackles and was an all-MWC player. If the defense can improve as expected look for him to be able to attack more in blitzing situations which would only make him better.

Who is the best offensive player on the team?

Running back Demond Dennis he had 427 yards on offense in only ten games, but managed a 5.47 yard per carry average, but at home he was a stud by averaging over eight yards per carry. His numbers were not great, but the Lobos will look to have a quartet of backs running the ball. The upside to that is that they will all be fresh, but look for Dennis to be the main back and get close to the 1,000 yard mark this season.

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

There are two impact players on defense and the first is LB Carmen Messina who had 162 tackles mainly because the defense was on the field a lot and the defensive line was not very good, and the other is defensive end Johnathan Rainey had 9.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. The two will hopefully lead a defense that must get better, plus couple that with Reggie Ellis and Ugo Uzodinma who will be eligible after transferring from Illinois, and super freshman Calvin Smith who was a four star defensive tackle from Florida.

What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach it's full capability?

The pressure will be on the running back corp which will be the best position on the team. They will need to help ease in BR Holbrook who is expected to be the starting QB. Sophomore Demond Dennis will lead the running back corp that will go four deep. If the running game can become solid that will make the quarterback transition much easier as well as help the defense by running some time off of the clock. A go to receiver is a must need for the BR Holbrook who is expected to be the starting quarterback.

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

This is not a flashy player by any means, but it looks to be redshirt freshman Dillon Farrell who will play center. He is projected to be in the starting lineup, and is 6'4 but is undersized at 272 pounds and will need to put on some weight to be able to become a force. Besides him there is the possibility of a true freshman starting at quarterback with Tarean Austin and Darian "Stump" Godfrey who are the type of player to run the Locksley system. There is a three star athlete Detchauz Wray who allegedly runs a 4.4, but is small at 5'11 and 162 pounds, and could be used as a return player, slot receiver, or may just redshirt to put on some weight.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

There are three actually who should make an immediate impact. The first two are defensive tackles Reggie Ellis and Ugo Uzodinma who followed head coach Mike Locksley from Illinois to New Mexico. Both are sophomores The other is four star defensive tackle Calvin Smith. Smith should see the field immediately and make an impact from day one. It is still odd that he choose New Mexico over most SEC schools, Notre Dame, and Florida State. Guess this really shows the prowess that Locksley has in recruiting which was one of the reasons he was brought into New Mexico.

Mike Locksley is coming off of a 1-11 debut season at New Mexico. What did he do well last year and what does he need to work on most?

They really did nothing well last year, but if I have to choose one is that they somehow almost beat BYU and had their kicker been able to make a couple of kicks they would have pulled an upset over the Cougars. The offense needs the most work, they were at the bottom or near the bottom in every major offensive category. Locksley brought over with him his spread attack, but did not have the quarterback to run the system. Donovan Porterie was the starter and is athletic but was coming off of an ACL injury that limited his athletic ability.

Is Locksley the answer at Head Coach? If so, what kind of time table do you see for his turning this team around?

His recruiting is the reason he is in town, but the Lobos never had as bad a season as last year in a very long time. Under previous coach Rocky Long the team was always competitive and able to attend the occasional bowl game. He is on thin ice with the incident of slugging the wide receivers coach last season and the lawsuits about sexual harassment and ageism, so he needs to show drastic improvement in the win column and limit the beat downs. If his recruiting is alleged to be as good as advertised he will need another two years where he will have his players in his system before the Lobos will be in contention for a bowl game.

Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

First off beating their rival New Mexico State is a must, getting to at least three wins, and not getting blown out. Their schedule is stacked at the beginning with games at Oregon, Texas Tech, and Utah at home, and then their tail end of the schedule is tough with games at Air Force, at BYU, and TCU at home. They realistically should be able to be competitive with UTEP, UNLV, and Colorado State and possibly win those games. A very early record prediction is 3-9 with wins over New Mexico State, UNLV, and UTEP.

Visit the SB Nation blog Mountain West Connection for news and views on the MWC. You can also follow them on twitter @JeremySBN.

5 college football movies as recommended by Gatorsports.com. Not sure I agree with The Blind Side, probably one of the most overrated movies of the past 10 years (not that it was horrible, it just wasn't good).

NCAA 11 comes out in mid-July and it's always fun to take a look at the ratings of the different players/teams. PastaPadre has most of the team ratings at his site.

Colorado State went 7-6 and went to a bowl game in Steve Fairchild's debut season. Last year the Rams fell to 3-9 and went winless in the Mountain West. The Rams won their first 3 games (including wins over Colorado and Nevada) and then dropped 9 consecutive games to close the season. We turned to Joel Cantalamessa of RamNation.com to find out if we could expect improvement from the 2010 version of the Colorado State Rams.

What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?

Strengths: Note this as an “I’ll believe it when I see it” statement, but the defense should be the strength of the team in 2010. The Rams have some experience (nine starters return from a year ago), and the staff is excited by the prospect of several young players. CSU coaches say the team will benefit from getting more speed on the field, which has been accomplished through recruiting, position changes, and restored eligibility. The Rams get team leader Ricky Brewer (the team’s leading tackler in 2008) back at the Sam linebacker position after he sat out the 2009 season due to suspension for breaking team rules. He’ll anchor a linebacking corps that may be among the best in the conference. Junior Mychal Sisson is the returning starter at weakside linebacker and Alex Williams or Chris Gipson will start in the middle. Freshman Brian Orakpo, originally penciled in as a safety, is being moved to linebacker and brings additional speed to the mix. The defensive line returns three starters, and an interesting player to watch will be Davis Burl who is being moved from linebacker to provide quickness and agility. This coaching staff has had success in converting linebackers to impactful defensive ends over the years, including Sean Moran, Adrian Ross, and Andre Sommersell. C.J. James is a true sophomore who might be primed for a breakout season. He’ll likely be battling Cory Macon for the bulk of the playing time on one of the end positions. Guy Miller is entrenched at nose tackle, while Ty Whittier and Nuku Latu split time during the spring at DT. Cornerbacks DeAngelo Wilkinson and Momo Thomas are now the elder statesmen in the defensive backfield, while safeties Elijah-Blu Smith and Ivory Herd provide speed and hitting ability. The Rams’ lone junior college signee from this year’s recruiting crop is cornerback Dominique Vinson, who brings 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash and may provide depth in the secondary.

Weaknesses: The Rams will be inexperienced on offense, with either a true (Pete Thomas) or redshirt freshman (Nico Rainieri) likely running the offense at quarterback. They won’t have the luxury of an experienced offensive line to protect them, as they don’t have a single full-time starter returning. Tackles Paul Madsen and Mark Starr, along with guard Jake Gdowski got significant playing time last year though, and the CSU staff thinks the line will come together again as a cohesive unit for the Rams. The quarterbacks won’t have a seasoned group of receivers to throw to either, as the Rams don’t return a single starter. But, walk-on Tyson Liggett (5-9, 186 lb) showed flashes of playmaking ability in 2009 when given the opportunity, and was the star of spring ball. Byron Steele, Vernon Scott, Matt Yemm, and Marquis Law will likely anchor the wide receiver rotation. The staff is excited about incoming freshmen Thomas Coffman (from the Pete Rebstock/David Anderson mold) and Josh James. But the key player to watch is Lou Greenwood, a speedy slasher who is moving from running back to slot receiver to stay on the field more. The Rams will look to get him the ball early and often.

Fullback Zac Pauga and tight end Eric Peitz provide experience and a rare combo of blocking and playmaking ability. UCLA transfer running back Raymond Carter (a junior) is eligible this year and should be the featured back in the backfield, along with senior Leonard Mason. Redshirt freshman Chris Nwoke, who the staff loves, and senior John Mosure provide depth.

Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?

The first major test will be Colorado at Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium in Denver. Both CSU and CU are trying to get their programs back on track, and CU is a desperate team that will be fighting to keep head coach Dan Hawkins’ job. Lose to CSU and the Buffs could struggle again throughout the 2010 campaign, forcing the Pac-10-bound Buffaloes to make a coaching change mid-season. After beating CU on its homefield last year, the Rams will certainly face a motivated squad.

What team on the schedule do you fear the most?

Take your pick: Utah, BYU, or TCU. The league’s “Big 3” are going to be formidable again. TCU figures to be the best of the bunch, but Pac-10-bound Utah will challenge for the title again, and the Rams will be hard-pressed to keep that game close on the road in Salt Lake City.

Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?

This isn’t a glamorous answer, but fullback Zac Pauga has been instrumental to the Rams’ success in running the football. He’s a fierce blocker and is such a good athlete that the Rams have gotten the ball in his hands not only in short-yardage situations, but in passing situations. Pauga is occasionally used as a receiver out of the backfield and ran a wheel route for a long touchdown in 2009.

Who is the best offensive player on the team?

It’s hard to say this, considering he hasn’t yet played a down for the Rams, but from everything he showed in practice in 2009, UCLA transfer Raymond Carter will be a stud at running back. He’s a quick runner, who also will give fans glimpses of Cecil Sapp-like tough running.

Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?

Without question, Ricky Brewer. His return not only brings speed and a nose for the ball, but also team leadership. His absence in 2009 was glaring in nearly every game, as the defense typically folded at the first sign of adversity. He will not let that happen when he’s on the field. He’ll be a mentor for younger players, including safety-turned-linebacker Mike Orakpo, and the incoming true freshmen.

What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach its full capability?

Junior center Tyler McDermott. The position requires a cerebral player who can call blocking schemes and be a leader for the entire offense. If the Rams find a good center, and all indications are that it will be McDermott, their offense will steadily develop. Equally important is the play of the quarterback, whether it be true freshman Pete Thomas or redshirt freshman Nico Rainieri. Both will make their share of mistakes as they adjust to the speed of the college football. But, the player who settles in, matures, makes the fewest mistakes, and leads the team the best will find himself the starter, and the Rams need that player to ultimately be a leader.

Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

Pete Thomas or Nico Raineri. Clearly one of these two will become the starter, as they took 90 percent of the snaps during the spring. Both have playmaking ability and are mature for young players. Sure, they are inexperienced, but the Rams have had serviceable fifth-year seniors run the show the past couple of years with mixed results. If either Thomas or Rainieri can step in and be a leader who makes a few plays and minimizes mistakes, the Rams can have a successful season (with promise of even greater years ahead). If the two youngsters are overwhelmed by the task, the Rams’ offense will falter all year. Another youngster on offense who showed this spring that he may be an impactful player is redshirt freshman tight end Joe Brown, who made several big catches during the Green and Gold spring game. Fans are also excited to see incoming true freshman running back Tony Drake, who brings 4.35 speed and may find himself on the field early, at punt or kick returner, or even at slot receiver.

Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?

Ricky Brewer could technically be included here. But, regarding new players, the Rams shouldn’t have to rely on any such newcomers to make significant impact. Although, talking true newcomers, put my money on speedy juco transfer cornerback Dominique Vinson as the biggest contributor. He shouldn’t be counted on to crack the starting lineup, but adds immediate depth. Freshman linebacker Mike Orakpo could ultimately develop into a contributor. Redshirt freshman Te’Jay Brown should figure into the rotation in the interior defensive line. Several incoming true freshmen are intriguing (linebacker Eric Niederberger, linebacker Charles Favors, safety Najee James, and defensive tackle John Froland come to mind), but it’s likely their impact won’t be felt for another year or two.

Gut feeling on the team’s final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?

After losing nine straight games to close the 2009 season, the Rams will battle some confidence issues. That can all be corrected with a win over archrival Colorado in the opener. The Rams should win a minimum of six games and become bowl-eligible. That should be a goal for this team. With the strength of the conference, the Rams better figure out a way to go at least 3-1 in nonconference play. If things break right, the Rams can certainly win more than six games, but as they proved last year, the Rams are still firmly entrenched in rebuilding mode and there are no automatic wins on the schedule. A 6-6 record with a bowl win to make it 7-6 is a successful season in my eyes with this team.

Make sure you visit RamNation.com this fall to follow Colorado State and the Mountain West Conference. You can also take part in the message board.

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